We will all remember where we were when we learned of certain occasions and events in our country’s history and I believe the killing of Osama bin Laden is one of them.After hearing the news late in the evening at my home, my thoughts immediately turned to the families and individuals who experienced the loss of a loved one during the tragic events of 9/11. I am hopeful that for many, the end of Osama bin Laden brings a sense of closure and relief. I then started to think about the brave and dedicated men and women of our armed forces. I am so grateful to all those who risk their lives for our country and who spend countless hours protecting our country against the ongoing threat of terrorism.

As the ranking member of the New York State Senate’s Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, I am mindful that the killing of Osama bin Laden may bring retaliation to our city and country and that we should be conscious and alert as to any suspicious or extraordinary activity we observe and immediately report said activity. It is rare to witness an event that brings the entire country together, and the death of Osama bin Laden did just that.